What happened: The San Francisco 49ers signed left tackle Vederian Lowe to a two-year, $9.5 million contract featuring $5.75 million in fully guaranteed compensation. The 27-year-old joins the roster to back up 38-year-old starter Trent Williams. Lowe replaces Austen Pleasants, who struggled as a late-season fill-in when thrust into the starting lineup.
Why it matters: San Francisco addressed its depth deficit after the offensive line surrendered significant pressure during recent absences by Williams. Lowe brings 1,529 career snaps of experience, having spent time with the New England Patriots in 2025. The front office structured the new agreement with three void years to 76 million signing bonus.
By the numbers: Lowe committed just two false starts in 2025, dropping sharply from his 11 penalties during the 2024 campaign. His overall blown-block rate climbed from 4.3 percent in 2024 to 6.3 percent last year, with 42 of his 50 blown blocks over the past two seasons occurring in pass protection.
What to watch: Lowe will compete to lock down the swing tackle job as training camp approaches. Coaches will evaluate his pass protection technique against outside rushers.